Fact Check: "Sanders insists U.S. must not engage in Netanyahu's war against Iran."
What We Know
On June 16, 2025, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) made a public statement regarding Israel's military actions against Iran, asserting that "the United States must not be dragged into another of Netanyahu's wars — not militarily or financially" (source-1). He criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's unilateral attack on Iran, which he claimed violated international law and was designed to sabotage ongoing diplomatic negotiations between the U.S. and Iran (source-1). Sanders emphasized that any military action against Iran would require explicit Congressional authorization, which he stated was not present (source-1).
In conjunction with his statement, Sanders introduced the "No War Against Iran Act," aimed at preventing the use of federal funds for military action against Iran without Congressional approval, further reinforcing his stance against U.S. involvement in the conflict (source-2).
Analysis
Senator Sanders' statement reflects a clear position against U.S. military involvement in conflicts initiated by foreign governments, specifically targeting Netanyahu's actions in Iran. His assertion that the U.S. must not engage in this conflict aligns with his long-standing advocacy for Congressional authority in matters of war (source-3). The reliability of Sanders' statements is bolstered by his history of consistent opposition to military interventions without Congressional consent, which is a constitutional principle he frequently emphasizes (source-5).
Critics may argue that Sanders' characterization of Netanyahu's actions as illegal and reckless could reflect a bias against Israeli policies. However, his statements are supported by international law principles and the broader context of U.S. foreign policy debates regarding military intervention (source-4). Additionally, the introduction of the "No War Against Iran Act" demonstrates a legislative effort to formalize his position, indicating a proactive approach to prevent U.S. involvement in what he considers unnecessary conflicts (source-2).
Conclusion
The claim that "Sanders insists U.S. must not engage in Netanyahu's war against Iran" is True. Senator Sanders has publicly stated his opposition to U.S. military involvement in the conflict initiated by Israel against Iran, emphasizing the need for Congressional authorization for any military action. His statements are consistent with his long-standing views on war powers and reflect a broader concern for international law and the implications of military conflict.
Sources
- NEWS: Sanders Statement: "The U.S. Must Not Be Dragged into Netanyahu's ...
- NEWS: Sanders Introduces No War Against Iran Act
- Bernie Sanders declares Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is ...
- Bernie Sanders Says US Must Not Be 'Dragged Into Another Netanyahu War ...
- Sanders Highlights 'Netanyahu Started This War' - Newsmax
- Sanders: The U.S. Must Not Be Dragged into Netanyahu's War Against Iran ...
- Sen. Sanders warns against US involvement in potential Iran conflict
- US must not be dragged into Netanyahu's war against Iran: Senator ...